Utilization of the Dunaliella salina microalgae by transesterification process with NaOH as catalyst in diesel combustion

Hanzheng Sun, Sandhanasamy Devanesan, Hossam M. Aljawdah, Rithika M and G.K. Jhanani

Renewable Energy, 2025, vol. 250, issue C

Abstract: The invention of biodiesel has reduced dependence on fossil fuels which have traditionally dominated energy production. Concerns about the depletion of petroleum resources have led to research into alternative fuels, with biofuels from microalgae including Dunaliella salina gained attention owing to its environmental benefits. In this study, tests were conducted experimentally in a single-cylinder, water-cooled, compression-ignition diesel engine. The constant load was maintained throughout the testing procedure at 100 %. Tests evaluated the biodiesel blends' performance, vibration, noise, emission, and combustion characteristics. The microalgae selected for the biodiesel preparation was Dunaliella salina (DS) which is an green algae in salt water. Microalgae blends were prepared using a transesterification process with NaOH as the catalyst. Different proportions of DS biodiesel were made and used to conduct experimental tests. The test results from the taken biodiesel were compared with the test results of pure diesel. The engine speed was varied from 1000 rpm to 3000 rpm in 500 rpm intervals, starting at 1000 rpm, then 1500 rpm, followed by 2000 rpm, then 2500 rpm, and concluding at 3000 rpm. The used fuels were pure diesel (D100), DSB10 % (diesel 90 %+DS biodiesel 10 %), DSB20 % (diesel 800 %+DS biodiesel 20 %), and DSB30 % (diesel 70 %+DS biodiesel 30 %). As the concentration of biodiesel was increased, its performance also improved. Additionally, the increased oxygen content from the biodiesel enhanced the combustion rate. Results showed that Brake thermal efficiency output was highest for DSB0 %. BTE was higher for the biodiesel blends in range between 2000 and 2500 rpm due to the higher oxygen content which ensures high combustion. Brake specific fuel consumption increased with higher biodiesel content and engine speeds. CO emissions were lower for the biodiesel blends due to more complete combustion, while CO2 and NOx emissions were higher, especially at higher engine speeds owing to its higher combustion temperatures.

Keywords: Dunaliella salina; Microalgae; Biodiesel; Biofuel production; Transesterification (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:renene:v:250:y:2025:i:c:s0960148125010067

DOI: 10.1016/j.renene.2025.123344

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